Shopping for a used wake boat is one of the best ways to join the wakesurf and wakeboard scene without jumping into the deep end of your bank account. The trick is knowing how to navigate the used market with confidence, especially when you're buying online and comparing dozens of listings from different sellers.
At OnlyInBoards, we make it easier by giving you access to the largest selection of used wake boats from trusted sellers across the country. Still, there are a few smart steps to take when narrowing down your options. This guide will walk you through the most important things to consider, what features matter most, and how to find the best fit for your lifestyle.
Wake boats are built to last. Many hold their value for years, especially if they come from a brand known for quality and innovation. So when you buy used, you’re not just saving money up front. You’re also sidestepping that early drop in value that happens as soon as a new boat leaves the showroom.
With a used wake boat, you can often:
In short, buying used opens the door to more possibilities for less money. The key is knowing how to pick the right boat for your needs.
Before anything else, ask yourself what kind of time you want to spend on the water. Your answer will help you quickly rule in—or out—certain boats.
Instead of asking what the best wake boat is, start by asking what kind of rider you are and what kind of days you want to have on the water.
Every wake boat brand brings something different to the table. Some are known for their wave-building technology. Others prioritize interior design, luxury touches, or price-to-performance value. The used market lets you tap into that brand quality without the new-boat markup.
Popular used boats with strong resale value often come from manufacturers with a reputation for durability, innovation, and rider satisfaction. Each model is designed with a slightly different riding style in mind, so it’s worth reading up on the boats that match your needs. At OnlyInBoards, you can filter your search by year, price, size, and key features to quickly find a shortlist of boats that match your style.
You’ll see a lot of features listed in boat descriptions, but not all of them should carry equal weight. Focus on the features that directly impact your experience on the water.
The more water a boat can take on with ballast, the bigger and more customizable the wake or wave. Look for boats with multiple ballast tanks and easy control options. Some may include plug-and-play systems that make it easy to upgrade later.
Boats with surf tabs or wave-shaping technology allow riders to fine-tune the wave, adjust the length and height, and switch from one side to the other more easily. These systems are especially helpful for families with multiple riders or those who are learning.
A tower makes wakeboarding easier and opens up space for racks, speakers, bimini tops, and lights. If the tower folds or collapses, it can also help with garage storage. Some used boats come with upgraded towers that would be expensive to add new.
Comfort plays a big role when you're out for the entire day. Look for seating arrangements that create space to move around and hang out, especially in the rear and bow. Boats with convertible lounges or rear-facing seats are especially popular for families.
Many newer used boats include touchscreen dashboards, Bluetooth integration, and cruise control. These tech features help drivers stay in control of the ride and make it easier to repeat a perfect run for each rider.
A low asking price doesn’t always mean a better deal. A boat that needs upgrades or maintenance could end up costing more than one that’s a little higher priced but ready to ride. At the same time, a well-maintained older model might be more reliable than a newer boat that was ridden hard and stored poorly.
Ask yourself:
Used boats that are clean, modern, and lightly used tend to move quickly, especially in peak buying season. Knowing what you’re willing to spend and what features matter most can help you act fast when the right listing pops up.
If the listing includes a trailer, that’s a big plus. Trailers are essential if you plan to tow the boat to and from the water, and buying one separately can add thousands to your total investment.
When comparing boats, check if the trailer:
Also note whether the trailer has been customized with upgraded wheels, lighting, or guides. These little details can make launching and loading easier, especially for newer boaters.
Some boats are built to be weekend workhorses. Others are built with luxury in mind. A few models strike a balance between both. As you shop, think beyond the first season of use. Ask yourself:
It’s also helpful to think about resale. If you take good care of your used wake boat, you can often sell it later and recover a big portion of your investment.
The used boat market can feel like the wild west if you’re browsing random classified sites. That’s why platforms like OnlyInBoards are so valuable. Every listing is geared toward wakeboarding, wakesurfing, and ski boats, and you can filter by brand, model year, size, price, and location.
You can also:
Buying online doesn’t mean you’re left guessing. The more information the listing provides, the more confident you can feel about your choice. If you have questions, many sellers are happy to provide more photos, walk-through videos, or answers to specific details.
Many used wake boats are great as-is, but there’s always room to personalize your setup. Buying a boat that leaves a little room in your budget can be a smart move if you know you want to upgrade specific features.
Here are a few common post-purchase upgrades:
Used wake boats often come with some of these upgrades already done, saving you the hassle and cost. But if you're a gear junkie or just like making it your own, the used market gives you more flexibility.
At OnlyInBoards, we connect you with the best used wake boats on the market, all in one place. Whether you're looking for something fully loaded or a solid platform you can upgrade over time, you’ll find listings that fit your needs and your budget.
Ready to make the water your second home? Start your search today.
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